Mpumalanga police is now investigating a case of murder following the deaths of two teenagers at a Sabie lodge earlier this week.

The bodies of Cameron Waldeck-Cooks (17) and Ethan Coetzee (19) were discovered on Monday at a holiday home near Sabie. Both had links to St Stithians College in Johannesburg.

Police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed to the media that the case, initially treated as an inquest, has been upgraded to murder following the release of post-mortem examination results.

Post-mortem findings raise questions

According to Colonel Masondo, the autopsy findings indicate that Waldeck-Cooks, a Grade 11 pupil at St Stithians Girls’ College, may have been strangled.

The examinations also revealed that Coetzee, who matriculated from St Stithians Boys’ College in 2025, likely died by suicide.

Initial police reports had suggested authorities were investigating a potential accidental drug overdose, but the forensic findings have altered the direction of the investigation.

Community in shock

St Stithians College released statements on Wednesday mourning the loss of both students, describing them as cherished members of the school community.

Waldeck-Cooks began her journey at St Stithians College in Grade R in 2015 and spent 12 years at the school. She was an accomplished sportswoman who excelled in both rowing and netball, and was recognised as a natural leader and mentor to younger students.

Coetzee completed the full Grade R to Grade 12 journey at Saints from 2013 to 2025. He was awarded rugby colours as a member of the first XV and was a national champion in eventing. The school described him as a young man of strength, commitment and humility.

No further details have been released as the homicide investigation continues. Police are working to piece together the final hours leading up to the tragedy.

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